Model-based predictive control of a multi-evaporator vapor compression cooling cycle Conference Paper uri icon

abstract

  • This paper presents a decentralized control architecture for multiple evaporator vapor compression systems using model-based predictive control. Vapor compression systems are widely used for heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration, and constitute a major part of total US energy use. Advanced control strategies have the potential to significantly increase energy efficiency, while delivering the necessary amount of cooling capacity. This paper proposes a decentralized control approach based on a study of interacting dynamics, wherein the cooling capacity of each evaporator is controlled by a multi-input, multi-output MPC controller and standard PI controllers are used to regulate system pressures by modulating compressor speed and discharge valve opening. This is in contrast with traditional single-input, single-output control approaches, which can result in undesired dynamic behavior. The efficacy of the proposed control architecture is demonstrated on an experimental system. 2008 AACC.

name of conference

  • 2008 American Control Conference

published proceedings

  • 2008 AMERICAN CONTROL CONFERENCE, VOLS 1-12

author list (cited authors)

  • Elliott, M. S., & Rasmussen, B. P.

citation count

  • 35

complete list of authors

  • Elliott, Matthew S||Rasmussen, Bryan P

publication date

  • June 2008